My yoga studio has a basketball court below it. During a calming session of yoga, it is not uncommon to hear the piercing screech of a whistle, frequent cheering and the intermittent shrieks of "Great shot Mike!". One time, I kid you not, there was a marching band procession going down, and the instructor had to calmly try and talk over the incessant drumming. Quite un-zen. Flow After Dark Silent Disco Yoga seeks to give yoga enthusiasts the exact opposite experience. How exactly does one silent disco yoga? Quite easily with the introduction of wireless headphones. These bad boys give participants a one-on-one with instructor, Flow Athletic co-founder Kate Kendall, while simultaneously pumping out beats from Sydney DJ James Mack. Also, they're neon. This one-off, 90-minute Vinyasa yoga session will see yogis come together at Southport Sharks Health and Fitness. It's probably your best (possibly only) chance to show off your best warrior pose while simultaneously jiving to some seriously smooth music. Silently.
Formerly the Milton Tennis Centre and Milton Bowls Club, the Roy Emerson Tennis Centre is a rejuvenated sports complex, playground and parkland just a short train ride from the Brisbane CBD. As the home of tennis in Queensland since 1915, it has seen some of the greats play here — but you don't have to be a grand slam champ to have fun at these courts. The Tennis Centre is open seven days a week, offering coaching and private lessons with Tennis Australia-qualified coaches for players of all levels. You can hire a court with your mates and play your way for $20 during the day or $27 after 5pm. Don't have the gear? No need to sweat from the sidelines. You can hire or buy equipment on site and save your perspiration for the game. If you're looking for an extra challenge and want to lean into your competitive side, consider joining the club and Tennis Queensland for a whole year for just $20. The membership gives you access to a bunch of benefits, including cheaper court hire rates, making it that little bit easier to start serving aces. The Emerson Coffee Shop is open 8.30am-6pm for simple post-match refreshments of coffee and cake, savoury quiches, slushies, smoothies and milkshakes.
Flipping through a newspaper, feeling the flimsy paper in your hands and finding your fingerprints smudged with ink might by a dying ritual; however The Wall Street Journal is hoping that people still want to take the time to sit, peruse and consume the news at a leisurely pace. Instead of hanging out at a cafe rifling through physical pages, readers can now enter an architect-designed virtual New York apartment to get their news fix thanks to the publication's just-launched VR news app. WSJ VR is the newspaper's new virtual reality app for Google's Daydream platform, ushering news junkies into a different kind of reading experience. Now available to download via Google Play, it allows users to view a wall filled with a live feed of breaking news, watch interactive 360-degree videos and see a visualisation of real-time market data, all in swanky digs designed by architecture firm Michaelis Boyd. Interactive storytelling is the WSJ's main focus, particularly allowing "the Journal's reporters and editors to take readers and viewers of our journalism anywhere in the world," said Andy Regal, WSJ's Global Head of Video, in a statement. Whether that's something anyone actually wants is yet to be seen, but it's certainly quite different to scrolling through newsfeeds on a smartphone screen. Users can do more than read, watch and see the news while they're using the app; they can also engage with the space — which is based on a mix of the firm's real-life residential projects — on a 360-degree axis. Accordingly, even if you're not keen on staying up-to-date on global events and financial developments in the most immersive way possible, the app also offers views of the New York City skyline — and it's cheaper than a plane ticket. Via Dezeen.
International travel might be off the cards for the next little while, but that means it's time to soak up all the goodness in your own backyard. Australia and New Zealand are chock full of world-class travel opportunities, with lush rainforests, dazzling coastline, pristine outback and more, just waiting to be explored. And one lucky local will get to hit the road and see part of it for free, thanks to a bumper new competition from Surf Stitch. The fashion retailer has joined forces with campervan hire crew Travellers Autobarn to give away a two-week road-tripping adventure of a lifetime. The winner will score 14-day van hire — with the chance to go cruising around either New Zealand or Australia with their besties, kicking off from a location of their choice — as well as a $1500 wardrobe worth of fresh threads from Surf Stitch, to keep you all looking extra good on tour. Where and when your adventure will unfold, is entirely up to you — and COVID-19 restrictions, of course. At the moment, there are restrictions on travelling between states and territories in Australia, all of Victoria is in lockdown and you can't fly between Australia and NZ — so, if you do win, be sure to check the laws before heading off on your adventure. Restrictions aside, you could go tripping along NSW's north coast, splitting your time between sandy beach and rainforest. Touring the untouched wilderness of Tassie. Or maybe gallivanting your way around the famed Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound on New Zealand's south island. Whatever your local travel bucket-list looks like, this prize is sure to help you tick off a few gems, while giving that holiday itch a good scratch. To be in with a shot at winning your ultimate road trip, simply jump on the competition website and enter your details. Then, decide just which part of this grand old backyard is calling to you the loudest. You can enter the competition by filling in your details over at the Surf Stitch website. Entries close at 11.59pm AEST on Friday, August 14. The competition is open to citizens and permanent residents of Australia and NZ. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
If you're like us, you've probably excitedly hummed along to the theme song at the start of every Game of Thrones episode (yep, all 73 of them). Now, you can do just that again, but you'll be joined by a live orchestra, a choir and tens of thousands of other spectators when the internationally renowned Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience finally hits Australia. Having toured North America and Europe, the grandiose musical show will head to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide in early 2020. The immersive show sees Emmy Award-winning composer Ramin Djawadi's emotive scores — from all eight seasons of the HBO show — brought to life with an international cast of soloists, an orchestra and a choir, and accompanied by the equally dramatic footage. Over in the States, according to MTV, the show featured 360-degree stages (designed to replicate locations throughout the Seven Kingdoms), 800 feet of video wall, an 80-piece orchestra and custom-made instruments, such as a 12-food Wildling horn. Expect things to be equally large and OTT Down Under, too. Expect, also, to relive some of the season's most dramatic moments — SPOILERS (if you somehow haven't watched it already) — such as Hodor's sacrifice, Arya's conquering of the Night King, Joffrey's (brilliant) death, the Battle of Winterfell, the Red Wedding and so much more. Pack the tissues, folks. What's more, the show will coincide with a series of 'VIP experiences' that we can definitely get around. These include a pre-show medieval banquet (hopefully without any Freys), the chance to sit on a Iron Throne and a dedicated butler, who'll deliver food (hopefully pies) and drinks (hopefully wine in goblets) to your seat. While you're waiting for the show to arrive next summer, you can re-listen to all eight seasons' scores on Spotify — including the nine-minute epic that is 'The Night King Theme' (we've handily embedded that below). If that's not enough to fill your time, you can also listen to some of Djawadi's other scores. He has created the music for Westworld, Prison Break, Pacific Rim and Iron Man, too. Get ready, winter is coming (back) to Aus. GAME OF THRONES LIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE 2020 DATES Brisbane — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, February 7 Sydney — ICC, February 9 Melbourne — Rod Laver Arena, February 12 Adelaide — AEC Theatre, February 15 Perth — RAC Arena, February 17 Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience pre-sale tickets are available from 9am on Tuesday, August 13 with general sale starting at midday on Friday, August 16 via Live Nation. Images: Ralph Larmann
Cheese and pasta go together like few food combinations. As great as they both are individually, a particularly enticing alchemy of flavours occurs when they join forces. But simply sprinkling grated mozzarella or ground parmesan over your spaghetti is yesterday's news. Eating pasta served out of a cheese wheel is what it's all about now. Salt Meats Cheese has long been hopping on everyone's current favourite Italian culinary bandwagon with its weekly night dedicated to the dish — and while Australia's restaurants and eateries are currently in takeaway and delivery-only mode, that doesn't mean you have to miss out on your cheesy pasta fix. Every Wednesday, you can order one kilogram of brie cheese spaghetti for $39, and either pick it up or have it brought to your home via UberEats or Deliveroo. While you're sitting at your own dining table, you'll be able to tuck into the cheesiest bowl of pasta you're ever likely to taste, with each serving designed for two people. Flavour-wise, there's a few available, because even a meal like cheese wheel pasta can use a few additions. Just classic cheese is on the menu, as are black truffle sauce, carbonara and a supremely indulgent four-cheese sauce.
Igloo season has hit southeast Queensland, with winter's arrival seeing plastic domes popping up at bars around the region. Some pitch their see-through spaces on a rooftop. Others welcome folks in by the river. On the Gold Coast, you can hang out in a beach-themed bar that's given itself a winter lodge makeover. Or, there's Bribie Island Hotel's version: garden pods. No one is pretending to be in icy climes at this northside pub, but it is only unleashing its newest addition for the frosty season. The garden pods are residing in the venue's fairy light-lit beer garden from June till the end of August, and they're exactly what they sound like. These domes come decked out in greenery and florals, furniture and cushions to look the part, and even feature a few plastic flamingos. There's six pods in total, each catering for up to eight guests for two-hour sessions. If you're keen, you'll need to book in a package, which starts at $60 per person and covers a share-style menu, plus a drink on arrival. You'll tuck into an antipasto platter filled with meats, cheeses, olives, arancini, chargrilled vegetables, dips and toasted sourdough — as well as grilled teriyaki beef skewers, buffalo chicken wings and barbecue pork ribs with roasted potatoes, parsnip, and salads as sides — with seafood available for an extra $35, and chocolate lava cake for $10.
Winter is upon us, the gloves and beanies are out of storage, and it's time to start loading up on sweets and carbs. That's how every June starts — and, this year, Krispy Kreme wants to help with the latter. How? By giving away an extremely excessive number of doughnuts. You're probably now wondering what constitutes an excessive amount of doughnuts. No, polishing off a packet by yourself doesn't count, at least in this instance. Krispy Kreme's giveaway is going big, with the chain slinging 100,000 original glazed doughnuts in conjunction with National Doughnut Day. Whether or not you're a big fan of food 'days', we're guessing you are quite fond of free doughnuts. To snag yourself a signature glazed freebie, head to your closest Krispy Kreme store around Australia — other than in the Northern Territory — on Friday, June 3. That gives you 33 places to flock to, with Sydneysiders able to hit up 12 stores stretching from Penrith to the CBD, Victorians needing to visit nine locations from the airport to the city, and Queenslanders given eight different doughnut shops to pick from (with the most central in Albert Street in the CBD). And, in Perth, you can head to one of four Krispy Kreme stores. The National Doughnut Day deal isn't available at BP outlets, 7-Eleven stores, Jesters or Woolworths, or via online orders or third-party deliveries. There's also a limit of one freebie per person, and the giveaway only applies to the original glazed variety. The 100,000 doughnuts will be spread across the participating stores, so you'll want to get in relatively early if you want to kick off your Friday with a free sweet and doughy treat. Obviously, whether you nab one or not is subject to availability. Krispy Kreme's free doughnut giveaway is happening in the chain's stores around the country on Friday, June 3. To find your closest shop and check its opening hours, head to the Krispy Kreme website.
The past 14 months or so haven't delivered many reasons to laugh. They haven't seen many big-name international comedians hit our stages to try to get us giggling and guffawing, either. But Bill Bailey is about to help end both of those unwanted streaks, with the British favourite bringing his En Route to Normal tour to our shores this October and November. It has been three years since Bailey last had the country chuckling back in 2018 — and then rewatching Black Books yet again and chuckling some more, naturally. This time, he's coming our way following a sold-our tour of New Zealand, where he also been filming a new trans-Tasman comedy panel series called Patriot Brains. So, if you need something to watch while you wait to see him live, consider this a hearty suggestion. Known for everything from Have I Got News for You and QI to Spaced, Hot Fuzz and Skins, Bailey will be pondering some of life's big questions during his En Route to Normal sets. And, while the pandemic is certain to get a mention, he actually named the show before lockdowns, social distancing and always knowing how many active cases are in your state became our current definition of normal. Bailey will kick off the tour in Queensland, before making his way — and taking his distinctive locks — to Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Plus, in some states, he won't just be sticking to capital cities. BILL BAILEY EN ROUTE TO NORMAL TOUR 2021: October 23 — Empire Theatre , Toowoomba October 25 — QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane October 28 — The Events Centre, Caloundra October 29 — Star Theatre, Gold Coast October 31 — Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah November 1 — Riverside Theatre, Perth November 5 — Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide November 8 — Princess Theatre, Launceston November 8 — Wrest Point Entertainment Centre, Hobart November 12 — Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo November 13 — Costa Hall, Geelong November 14 — Civic Hall, Ballarat November 15 — Palais Theatre, Melbourne November 19 — Wollongong Town Hall, Wollongong November 21 — State Theatre, Sydney November 23 — Coliseum Theatre, Sydney November 27 — Royal Theatre, Canberra November 28 — Civic Theatre, Newcastle Bill Bailey's En Route to Normal tour will make its way around the country this October and November. For pre-sale tickets between 12pm Thursday, May 20–5pm, Sunday, May 23, for general ticket sales from 12pm Monday, May 24 and for further information, head to the tour website. Top image: Andy Hollingworth.
Another week, another new hotel in Brisbane — or so it seems of late. Only months after the revamped Ovolo Inchcolm launched in Spring Hill and just weeks after the W Hotel set up shop on North Quay, Novotel South Bank has joined the fold — adding another place to stay to the city's go-to riverside precinct. It's Novotel's third site across Brisbane, joining existing hotels on Creek Street in the CBD and out at the airport. Three years in the making, the new hotel boasts 238 rooms adjacent to the 17-hectare parklands, not only giving visitors access to the onsite facilities — a heated outdoor swimming pool and a banquet space included — but also the surrounding greenery, shops, cultural venues and scenic walkways. Plus, the seven-hectare Musgrave Park is nearby as well. Indeed, the Novotel is taking its location seriously, with the building's design apparently taking inspiration from nearby landmarks such as the South Bank Grand Arbour and the Kurilpa Bridge. Food and drink is also a central focus of the hotel, with the onsite Spice Central Kitchen & Bar serving up a modern Australian menu influenced by Asian flavours. Find Novotel South Bank at 38 Cordelia Street, South Brisbane.
If you're a fan of Australian music festivals, a feeling of déjà vu might be sinking in right now. In 2024, both Groovin the Moo and Splendour in the Grass announced dates and big lineups, then scrapped their festivals mere weeks afterwards. In 2025, one week after another, both fests have now cancelled their 2025 plans as well. After Splendour confirmed that it wouldn't be back this year, Groovin the Moo has done the same. The latter hasn't advised that it will definitely will return in 2026, either — but the team behind it are asking for lineup suggestions for future fests. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Groovin the Moo (@groovinthemoo) "Groovin the Moo won't be happening in 2025, while we work on finding the most-sustainable model for Australia's most-loved regional touring festival," the event's organisers said via social media. "We will really miss seeing the smiling faces of all our beloved Moo crew — and that means you! In the meantime, which artist would you most like to see on a GTM lineup?" In 2024, the long-running regional music event was due to play six stops: Adelaide, Canberra, Bendigo, the Sunshine Coast, Bunbury and Newcastle, with the latter marking its debut in the New South Wales city. Wu-Tang Clan's GZA, Spice Girl Melanie C doing a DJ set, The Kooks, The Beaches and Alison Wonderland were among the talents on the bill, alongside Stephen Sanchez, Armani White, Kenya Grace, King Stingray, DMA's, Jet, The Jungle Giants, Mallrat and San Cisco, plus Hot Dub Time Machine, Mura Masa, Claire Rosinkranz, Jessie Reyez, Meduza and The Rions — and others. When Groovin the Moo pulled the plug last year, it named poor ticket sales as the reason. "We are extremely disappointed to announce that the Groovin the Moo 2024 tour has been forced to cancel," advised the statement at the time. "Ticket sales have not been sufficient to deliver a regional festival of this kind." "We hope to be able to bring Groovin the Moo back to regional communities in the future." Groovin the Moo won't be taking place in 2025. For more information, head to the festival's Instagram. Images: Jordan Munns.
As you read this, Kiwi charity Live More Awesome are getting their hands dirty, literally, constructing the world's biggest waterslide. This 650m long monster is the length of two Sky Towers and is located just 30 minutes from Auckland, New Zealand. The aim of the event is to raise funds and increase awareness for depression, as the not-for-profit charity is all about combatting mental illness through life changes, not just drugs. D-day is set for the 23rd and 24th of February and will feature three waterslides (the others will be a more standard 60m and 80m), food, and a shady area to hang out, complete with Kiwi entertainment (courtesy of George FM). Co-founder Jim Hunt says, "The World's Biggest Waterslide is all about pushing boundaries and creating the ultimate summer event. We have some epic entertainment planned for the day and we can't wait to see the reaction on people's faces as they come down the slides, it will be a truly unique experience". According to MentalHealth.org.nz, depression in New Zealand has affected as many as 1 in 5 people within the past year alone. "We're a couple of Kiwi guys who like so many others have really suffered at hands of depression," co-founder Dan Drupsteen says. "It was really tough, but having come out the other side we decided the best way for us to keep depression at bay was to 'Live More Awesome'. We hope this amazing project will encourage others to do the same and we want people to know it's ok to ask for help." Ticket prices start at $46 and are limited to 2000 people. You can contribute to the building of the waterslide through Indiegogo. Check out their progress so far in the video below.
Inner city north dwellers rejoice! Sol Breads West End has a younger (and slightly sleeker) sister: Sol Natural Foods in Fortitude Valley. Of course you can expect Sol's iconic artisan breads, wholesome loaves, muffins, raw foods and breakfast delights (think acai bowl, house toasted granola or smashed avocado on freshly baked rye) to be on the menu, but it's the vegetarian, olive oil base pizzas (gluten free available of course) and craft beers that people go cray cray for. Oh and spelt cookies. Don't forget the spelt cookies. The rather cavernous space located on Ann Street oozes hipster mod and is decked out with yellow steel chairs, mini cacti and painted black brick walls. Whether you choose to sit inside or outside the vibes have you pining for your Birkenstocks, loose tee and denim. But the key feature of the whole cafe really is their display cabinet. Freshly baked banana bread, carrot cake with swirls of cream cheese icing or raw cakes with multi-tiered layers will have you drooling like a St. Bernard. Brownies, bliss balls and chia puddings also make the mouth water while the savoury tarts, quiches, rolls and fresh salads make you start thinking about lunch before you've sat down for breakfast. The coffee here is pretty darn good too. Just make sure you ask for a double shot if you don't want a mug. It's also an excuse to order a spelt cookie... Photo credit: Sol Natural Foods Facebook
By now you’re probably well acquainted with the rooftop pool terrace, so it’s time we introduced the restaurant. A welcome addition to Brisbane CBD’s central dining scene, Lennons Restaurant & Bar is here to cater for everyone at any time, on any day, at any budget. A simple escalator ride from the mall, indulge in the a la carte menu, speed through the 60-minute 'Lunch Timed' concept or take your pick of the daily lunchtime deals. Located within the new Next Hotel, the venue is named after the original dwelling. With floor-to-ceiling glass windows that look onto Queen Street Mall, the interior finds that warm balance between modern sophistication and comfortable class. Large spaced with natural light? Tick. Executive chef worth writing home about? Tick (Todd Adams previously worked at Stokehouse and the Euro). Business lunch? Tick. Cheap and quick bite? Tick. Totally air conditioned? Tick (can’t be underestimated in summer). Breakfast, lunch and dinner? Tick. The a la carte menu offers everything from salads and burgers to pasta and woodfired pizza, but if you’re out to treat yourself, order a steak ($32–$38) hot off the parrilla grill. Lennons steaks could be the best you find outside of a specialty grill restaurant in Brisbane. Served with a whole bulb of roasted garlic, it's even better if you add the roasted honey pumpkin with spiced nuts and seeds side. Realising the Monday to Friday clientele consisted mainly of time-poor business people who wanted quick food (not fast food), the restaurant introduced Lunch Timed. "Making your time count", the express lunch menu delivers a three-course meal in under 60 minutes, or you get half off the bill. Either way, you’re winning. The menu consists of a set entree and dessert, and your choice of three mains. If you’re penny-pinching, from Monday to Friday there is also a daily lunch deal, $10 burgers on Monday, "veal-like-a-schnitzel" Thursday $15, and so on. The range Lennons shows makes it a winner among hotel restaurants. And if you haven’t been up to the pool terrace yet, then you’ve got some work to do.
Whenever 90s rom-com Pretty Woman comes to mind, Roy Orbison's song likely does as well. When the musical based on the hit flick arrives in Australia for the first time, you'll be getting Bryan Adams tunes lodged in your head, too. The Canadian singer-songwriter helped bring the Julia Roberts (Leave the World Behind)- and Richard Gere (The Agency)-starring film to the stage, penning the music and lyrics for the show — and during his latest Aussie tour, it was announced that Pretty Woman: The Musical is finally heading Down Under, debuting in Brisbane. From Sunday, October 5, 2025, the late 80s-set tale of Vivian met Edward will roll into the QPAC Lyric Theatre in the Queensland capital, following a romance that's already fuelled a box-office smash as a movie, then premiered on Broadway in 2018 as a theatre production. If you've seen the film, you'll know the story, as an escort and a corporate raider fall in love — and you'll also know that it made Roberts a star, complete with a Golden Globe win, plus her first Best Actress Oscar nomination. Alongside America's most-famous theatre district, where it broke records at the Nederlander Theatre, Pretty Woman: The Musical has graced the stage in London's West End, plus Spain, Italy, Poland and Germany. There's no word yet regarding the local cast, so who'll be following in Roberts and Gere's footsteps — and Laura San Giacomo (NCIS) and Hector Elizondo's (Mr Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie) as well — hasn't been announced. Whether Pretty Woman: The Musical will head to other Australian stops also hasn't yet been revealed. Behind the curtain, Adams worked with his songwriting partner Jim Vallance, who he wrote 'Summer of '69', 'Run to You', 'Cuts Like a Knife' and 'Heaven' with, on the music and lyrics. Late filmmaker Garry Marshall (Mother's Day), who directed the Pretty Woman movie — plus Roberts and Gere's on-screen reunion in 1999 in Runaway Bride — penned the book with the OG flick's screenwriter JF Lawnton (Yellow River Christmas). Images: UK tour, Marc Brenner.
Brash and irreverent rock outfit Future of the Left have announced that they will be playing a string of shows down under in January 2014. Formed following the dissolution of the beloved post-hardcore band Mclusky, Future of the Left is a Welsh quartet that emerged in 2005. They have since gained a sturdy reputation for the sprawling energy and raw power of their live sets. With a knack for fusing together melody and groove, the band will be sweeping up the eastern seaboard, rewarding their loyal Aussie fan base with raucous performances filled with biting wit and musical mayhem. From their wry song titles to lyrics such as, "I have seen into the future/ Everyone is slightly older" and "Civilised people don't fuck bears/ Civilised people don't play fair", Future of the Left showcase an offbeat, slightly cynical sense of humour armed with heavy riffs. Prepare for a meaty slice of rock 'n' roll and a welcome dose of cheeky laughs. Future of the Left’s forthcoming album, How to Stop Your Brain in an Accident, will be released on October 25, 2013. Tickets are available now through the Handsome Tours website. The tour dates are: Thursday, Janaury 2 The Corner Hotel, Melbourne Friday, January 3 The Annandale, Sydney Sunday, January 5 The Zoo, Brisbane
Every year since 1987, when March rolls around, the Texan city of Austin becomes a hive of activity for fans of film, music, creativity, culture, technology and everything in-between. That's no longer the case in 2020, however, with this year's South By Southwest now cancelled for the first time in the event's 34-year history. In the same week that new Bond movie No Time to Die had its release date pushed back from April to November, the reason for SXSW's cancellation is obvious, with concerns mounting about the effect of the coronavirus COVID-19 — especially in such a busy, public, highly populated space as a large-scale, highly attended music and film fest. SXSW organisers scrapped the 2020 event after the City of Austin basically made the decision for them. "The City of Austin has cancelled the March dates for SXSW and SXSW EDU. SXSW will faithfully follow the City's directions," the festival announced in a statement. With SXSW 2020 due to take place next week from Friday, March 13–Sunday, March 22, speculation that the event wouldn't go ahead had been mounting over the past few days. In fact, a Change.org petition calling for the fest's cancellation due to the coronavirus outbreak received more than 55,000 signatures. Before the event was officially canned, plenty of high-profile parties had already dropped out of attending the festival — including Amazon, Netflix and Apple, all of whom had scrapped screenings of upcoming films and TV shows; music groups like Sony, Universal and Warner Music; and speakers and guests such as Trent Reznor, the Beastie Boys and Ozzy Osbourne. [caption id="attachment_764009" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Shelley Hiam[/caption] SXSW's powers that be are currently exploring their options — to either reschedule this year's event, or provide a "virtual SXSW online experience". It's highly unlikely that this is the last time that COVID-19 will have this effect on the entertainment industry. Large swathes of cinemas have been temporarily shuttered in China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Italy and France; theme parks have been closed in Shanghai, Hong Kong and Tokyo; and the latest Mission: Impossible movie shut down its production in Venice. Music tours have been cancelled throughout Asia, too, and plenty of questions hang over forthcoming events elsewhere in the world — such as Coachella in April and the Cannes Film Festival in May. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: David Brendan Hall.
When IT floated onto the big screen in 2017, inspiring plenty of coulrophobia in the process, it only told half of the story. Adapting Stephen King's bestseller into a film, the horror hit jumped back to 1988–89, visited the author's usual setting of Derry, Maine, and followed a group of teenagers who came face to face with their worst clown-filled nightmares. But, as fans of the book or the 1990 TV series know, that's literally just the beginning. Cue IT: Chapter Two, another excuse to unleash the white-faced, flame-haired Pennywise (Bill Skarsgård) upon the world, rustle up more than a few creepy scares and make a mint at the box office, all by charting the novel's other timeline. Set 27 years later — because that's how often the sadistic, shapeshifting demon pops up — it revisits the kids known as the Losers Club. They're all grown up, with Jessica Chastain, James McAvoy and Bill Hader leading the cast, but they're not done with red balloon-wielding evil just yet. Or, to be more accurate, Pennywise isn't done with them. If you're already afraid of clowns, IT: Chapter Two clearly won't be for you. If you'd like to discover just what it takes to make you tremble at the sight of circus performers, this sequel will definitely help. So will its just-released first trailer, which introduces the adult gang, reminds everyone not to chase toy sailboats into storm drains and — of course — lets its sinister villain do his worst again. Original director Andy Muschietti (Mama) is back at the helm, so expect a hefty dose of unnervingly effective and all-round unsettling horror imagery once more. And, while this eagerly anticipated follow-up has plenty of star power, the first flick's Sophia Lillis, Jaeden Martell, Finn Wolfhard and company all return as the younger versions of the Losers Club as well. Take a peek at the first trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqUopiAYdRg IT: Chapter Two releases in Australian cinemas on September 5, 2019.
Festival FOMO is real, and festival sideshows are one solution: the gigs you go to when you're not going to the main gig. Can't make it to Adelaide for two music-filled October days at Harvest Rock II? Loving the South Australia-only fest's lineup? Four of the event's highlights have just announced dates along Australia's east coast. Chief among them are Sparks, which will draw upon a whopping 57 years of making ridiculously catchy and smartly funny tunes on their first tour of Australia since 2001. Thanks to 2021's double of Edgar Wright-directed documentary The Sparks Brothers and Cannes Film Festival opener Annette, brothers Ron and Russell Mael have been everywhere of late — and that's now about to include Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, busting out tracks like 'The Number One Song in Heaven', 'This Town Ain't Big Enough for the Both of Us' and latest single 'The Girl Is Crying in Her Latte'. In a glorious move, they've been beginning their recent sets with 'So May We Start' from Annette, too, which won them the Best Composer award at Cannes. Fresh from releasing her fourth studio album Spirituals in 2022, Santigold will extend her trip to Australia with sideshows in Sydney and Melbourne. 2023 marks 15 years since the genre-defying artist first demanded attention with her debut record Santogold, and sparked a career that's seen her influence and team up with plenty of others. Drake, Lil Wayne and Future have sampled the Philadelphia-born talent's tracks, while Beastie Boys, David Byrne, Karen O and Nick Zinner of Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Basement Jaxx, Jay Z, Mark Ronson, Pharrell and Lykke Li have enlisted her as a collaborator. Following their fifth stint at Coachella earlier in 2022, Chromeo will also hit Sydney and Melbourne, bringing Dave 1 and P-Thugg our way almost two decades since their 80s-influenced electro-funk sound started echoing from intial album She's in Control. The Lemon Twigs are also veering beyond Adelaide, with visits to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Brothers Brian and Michael D'Addario will draw upon their four-album span since 2016, as bookended by debut Do Hollywood and this year's Everything Harmony. All Harvest Rock sideshows will take place around the festival's dates, both before and afterwards, across Thursday, October 26–Thursday, November 2. And no, there won't be Jamiroquai and Beck gigs, with both playing their only Aussie sets at in Adelaide. To see either this October in Australia, only a Harvest Rock ticket will do. HARVEST ROCK II SIDESHOWS: SPARKS Thursday, October 26 — Palais Theatre, Melbourne Tuesday, October 31 — Sydney Opera House, Sydney Thursday, November 2 — Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane SANTIGOLD Friday, October 27 — Metro Theatre, Sydney Saturday, October 28 — Prince Bandroom, Melbourne CHROMEO Thursday, October 26 — Metro Theatre, Sydney Sunday, October 29 — 170 Russell, Melbourne THE LEMON TWIGS Thursday, October 26 — Corner Hotel, Melbourne Saturday, October 28 — Manning Bar, Sydney Tuesday, October 31 — The Outpost, Brisbane Harvest Rock 2023 will take at Rymill Park / Murlawirrapurka and King Rodney Park / Ityamai-itpina, Adelaide, on Saturday, October 28–Sunday, October 29, 2023. The festival's sideshows will tour Australia's east coast from Thursday, October 26–Thursday, November 2, with pre-sale tickets from 9am local time on Thursday, August 24 and general sales from 9am local time on Friday, August 25. Head to Concrete Playground Trips for a VIP Harvest Rock package for two, including tickets and accommodation.
Bringing together skilled orchestral musicians from across Australia, Alternative Symphony takes the same approach as Britain's acclaimed orchestral group No Strings Attached. And, for its next big shows, the troupe is set to perform the work of hip hop greats with a classical slant. At The Valley Drive In from 7pm on Saturday, December 19, the Alternative Symphony will give the hits of Notorious B.I.G. and 2Pac the orchestral treatment, all while guest vocalists step in to reimagine verses. The rappers, considered two of the most significant and influential emcees of all time, were famously the focal points of the East Coast–West Coast hip hop rivalry — which spawned an endless supply of antagonistic diss tracks. At this one-off orchestral experience expect to hear hits like 'California Love', 'What's Beef?', 'Changes', 'Mo Money Mo Problems' and 'Thugz Mansion' played on violins and saxophones. The Alternative Symphony has previously tackled the songbooks of Dr. Dre and Daft Punk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wBTdfAkqGU An Orchestral Rendition of Biggie and 2Pac takes place from 7pm on Saturday, December 19 at The Valley Drive In — with tickets on sale now.
Air out that mouldy tent, start rounding up the GoPros, Falls Festival have announced their 2014 lineup. With Byron now extended to a four-day program, Falls Festival is returning to its three sites (Lorne, Marion Bay and North Byron Parklands) for its annual New Year's Eve hootenanny. So who's on the bill? Returning with a Mercury Prize and a million debut album copies sold under their belt, Leeds foursome Alt-J are sure to be one of the packed sets this year. Scandinavian super besties Röyksopp and Robyn are locked in for an epic two hour set of combined releases. There'll be ass everywhere with the presence of the unmissable Big Freedia. The sublimely talented SBTRKT is set to play a huge live set (one of Laneway Festival's best sets to memory), while the formidable Jamie XX will keep the basslines well up in grill. Fresh from Glastonbury, George Ezra is set to be one of the festival highlights, with the debut set from the legendary Todd Terje, house monarchs Tensnake, Sydney trio Movement and San Francisco's Tycho sure to send everyone on a synthy, beats-fuelled odyssey. Altanta's favourite 'flower punk' band The Black Lips are in. Confirmed after a leak in Cleo, UK's Glass Animals are confirmed to get sultry. Festival favourites Cold War Kids return with their latest album's material (and a few oldies), while Australia's own ARIA-winners The Temper Trap return to the live circuit with material from their upcoming third record. Rap fans have some gleeful squealing to get to, with Brooklyn's Pro Era whiz Joey Bada$$, Killer Mike and El-P's Fool's Gold super-collab Run the Jewels, Melbourne's own Remi locked in. 'Stolen Dance' fans will have plenty to jig about with the first Australian tour of Milky Chance, Sydney's Bluejuice are playing their last round, London's Wolf Alice are sure to generate some buzz, and Canberran trio SAFIA are also buzzworthy inclusions. There's a few Splendour returns: Britpop-loving Sydney dudes DMAs, newbie hip hop firecracker Tkay Maidza, Sydney dance legends The Presets, electronic whiz kid The Kite String Tangle, returning rock heavyweights Spiderbait, singalong starters Sticky Fingers and Riptider Vance Joy. Falls will also see a kickass 'Boogie Nights' program featuring none other than the ever-kickass hip hop legends Salt n Pepa, Melbourne's best-dressed duo Client Liaison, Sydney partystarter Alison Wonderland and Canada's Badbadnotgood. THE FALLS MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL 2014 LINEUP (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER): ALT-J BIG FREEDIA THE BLACK LIPS BLUEJUICE COLD WAR KIDS DMAs GLASS ANIMALS GEORGE EZRA JAGWAR MA JAMIE XX JOEY BADA$$ JOHN BUTLER TRIO KIM CHURCHILL THE KITE STRING TANGLE MILKY CHANCE MOVEMENT THE PRESETS REMI RÖYKSOPP & ROBYN RUN THE JEWELS SAFIA SBTRKT (LIVE) >SPIDERBAIT STICKY FINGERS THE TEMPER TRAP TENSNAKE TKAY MAIDZA TODD TERJE (LIVE) TYCHO VANCE JOY WOLF ALICE + MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED. BOOGIE NIGHTS LINEUP (DEC 28 LORNE, DEC 29 MARION BAY, DEC 31 BYRON): ALISON WONDERLAND BADBADNOTGOOD CLIENT LIAISON SALT N PEPA + MORE. EVENTS: Dec 28, 2014 to Jan 1, 2015 in Lorne, VIC (est. 1993) 18+ event Dec 29, 2014 to Jan 1, 2015 in Marion Bay, TAS (est. 2003) All ages Dec 30, 2014 to Jan 3, 2015 in Byron Bay, NSW (est. 2013) 18+ event The ticket ballot is now open via the festival’s website and will be closing on Monday August 25. Enter the ballot here. Most of the event tickets are allocated to sales through the ballot process, starting at 9am on Thursday August 28; however, for those who miss out, there will also be a small allocation of tickets set aside for general public sales starting at 9am on Wednesday September 03. Image: Paul Smith
Laneway dining can be as dangerous as it is delicious. In the early days of Brew, Flamingo and Bean, trendy eaters were adventurers wandering down uninhabited, barely lit alleys; dazed, confused and chasing a hidden coffee hit. But now we've become accustomed to the escape from bustle and smoke that laneway cafes almost always offer, and Brisbane's latest addition to the scene is one you'll risk limb and pride for — because it's a hidden, inner-city gem that deserves a little light. Strauss has been open for a few months now, and in that time has taken a little while to be discovered. It's neatly tucked in a lane on Elizabeth Street opposite Wintergarden; let the high, glowing Strauss sign be your guiding star. The lane is lined with seating, but inside is the kind of cosy atmosphere you should really invest some good eyeing to secure. Plus, inside you can watch your coffee being made and food being prepared while maintaining some super uncomfortable eye contact with the wonderfully polite waitstaff. It's run by the same cafe curators as Merriweather and Cup, so you know their cafe game is strong, and their coffee one is even stronger. Truck along a few times, and you'll become familiar with the barista, who may not pump out coffee at Starbucks speed but does so with a hell of a lot more care and precision. Food wise, there's not a lot to choose from, but that's quickly compensated by the quality on show. If you're craving something hearty but don't want to torture you're waistline, then the salads are the way to go. Don't groan; these ones are actually, dare I say, tasty. From chickpea and fennel to tomato and mozzarella galore, these healthy options are packed full of ingredients and flavour. Strauss even offer a tasting plate of all the salads, will should really be used and abused. If a salad makes you writhe with fear, Strauss's sandwiches aren't your run-of-the-mill ham and cheese between two slices. The pastrami, tomato and caramelised onion baguette feels like something from a Woody Allen film and tastes even better. And if all that's just a little to high end for your CBD lunch break, treat yo' self to some avocado on toast; Strauss have got it down to a tee. Whether you're looking for somewhere quiet to chill, a salad to Instagram or a coffee with a little heart, then Strauss is the laneway cafe you best be trekking towards. Just make sure you go down the right alley.
Brisbanites, cancel your lunch plans for Tuesday, March 5, 2024. Actually, maybe cancel your morning plans as well. Whatever you already had on your agenda for the day, it's being pushed back, because this is happening again: In-N-Out Burger is returning to Brisbane for one of its late-notice burg-slinging pop-ups. From 9am–3pm, the American chain will hit Fortitude Valley's The Sound Garden on Brunswick Street, serving up burgers within that six-hour window — or until sold out. The venue announced the news on its social media. And yes, these pop-ups always happen with very little notice, as you might remember from past In-N-Out frenzies before the pandemic. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Sound Garden (@thesoundgardenbne) On the menu: the chain's double-double, animal-style and protein-style burgs, all while stocks last — with limited quantities available. If you've been to one of In-N-Out's previous Australian pop-ups — in Brisbane or interstate — then you'll know these burgers sell like, well, cult-status burgers. So, you'll have to get there ASAP on Tuesday. Work can wait. Brisbane's latest In-N-Out burger pop-up will run from 9am–3pm on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at The Sound Garden, 312–318 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley. Keep an eye on the venue's Facebook and Instagram for more details. Images: Thank You (21 Millions+) views / Craig Lloyd via Wikimedia Commons.
So by now it's pretty well-predicted that La La Land is going to dominate this year's Oscars, which, depending on who you ask, is either The Greatest Thing and totally deserved or The Worst Thing and proof of the Academy's irredeemable age/taste/whiteness. But there is one award it shouldn't win, and that's Best Original Score — if you ask us, it shouldn't even be nominated for it. That's because La La Land is a musical, and doesn't have a score in the usual cinematic definition of the word. Generally, a score is the music underpinning the action, not occurring within the scene as it does in La La Land. Ryan Gosling might look adorable while he's noodling on a piano for 'City of Stars', but the fact that he's most certainly in the scene means that the song is not part of the score in the usual sense. This distinction has been emphasised by the Academy itself in the past — from 1949 to 1969, Best Original Score was split into two separate categories: one for Original Score, and one for Musical Score. The score of a film is as important as any other aspect of it; it occupies more of a film's screentime than any actor, conveys more emotion than any speech, sets the mood more evocatively than any costume or lighting or scenery. The great film critic Roger Ebert liked to say that "movies are like a machine that generates empathy". If he's correct, the score is the engine driving that machine. Film is an inherently visual medium, yet a great score is as memorable as any image. Two drags of a cello's bow and you're going to need a bigger boat; I only have to hint at the famous 'dum dum dum dum DAdum dum DAdum' and you're reaching for your inhaler. Show me one big-budget action film since Inception that hasn't used Hans Zimmer's patented PWAAAAAAAARP at some moment of high drama. Think of The Pink Panther, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Psycho, Chariots of Fire or basically any Spielberg film, and it's the score that leaps into your mind instantly. You only have to look at the list of winners of Best Score to see how seriously film scores are taken. Significant classical composers like Erich Korngold (The Adventures of Robin Hood), Aaron Copland (Of Mice and Men, The Heiress), Leonard Bernstein (On the Waterfront), André Previn (Gigi), Miklós Rózsa (Ben-Hur), Ennio Morricone (The Mission, The Hateful Eight) and Tan Dun (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), and even Shostakovich and Prokofiev have all written scores. Other composers like Elmer Bernstein, Malcolm Arnold, Bernard Herrmann and Nino Rota — whose careers were mostly spent writing for films — are now spoken of in the same breath as other more traditionally classical composers, while today the music of James Horner, John Williams, Howard Shore and Hans Zimmer is often performed by symphony orchestras in the world's most prestigious concert halls. Even Trent Reznor has an Oscar for The Social Network. With all this blurring of boundaries and genres, the sound palette of films is broader and more experimental than it has ever been. Philip Glass, a modern classical composer long derided as difficult and unlistenable, has achieved popular recognition thanks to his score for The Hours; similarly, Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson's work has spanned film, theatre and contemporary classical throughout his career (and would have been nominated for an Oscar for his score for Arrival but for a technicality). This year's nominees for Best Original Score cover a number of styles, from musical (La La Land) to minimalist (Lion), from shimmery strings and piano chords (Passengers) to tense, darting violins (Moonlight) and unsettling, lush-yet-uneasy chamber pieces (Jackie) – proving that the emotion you make an audience feel is far more important than the method by which you make them feel. Film scores, in all their diverse sounds and styles, are inseparable from the cinema experience. They can complement characterisation, drive plot, confirm suspicions for an audience or confound their expectations. One thing they absolutely should not do is break into song on a highway off-ramp.
Roll up, roll up, laugh-loving folks — it's that time of year. Think there's not much in common between a circus and a comedy festival? Well, both throw a feast of different acts your way for you to have a fine night out. And both will make you marvel at just what's possible — in terms of clever gags and, in comedy's case, how much more hilarity your stomach can handlee. At this year's Brisbane Comedy Festival at Brisbane Powerhouse — the event's eighth and biggest yet — there will be more than 66 comedians performing over the course of four weeks. The best thing to do is clear your schedule, dive in and prepare to give your face a workout.
The Northern Rivers' food scene has got a new kid on the block, and it's bringing more than a little of the Big Apple with it. Tucked inside a newly renovated community business precinct in Byron Bay, Baloney's is a New York-Italian-style deli and cafe that's serving up nostalgia, deli meats and loaded sambos — no baloney. It's been brought to life by founder George McFarlane as a passion project that puts a breezy Byron spin on Italian-American food culture. And while the two-hander sandwiches might be the initial drawcard, the space itself — designed by Northern Rivers studio Happy Hour — is full of character. Inside, you'll find black-and-white checkerboard tiles, a standing espresso bar and a restored vintage church bench that serves as a nod to old-school delis, while outside, a sun-soaked, 40-person deck sets the stage for relaxed al fresco hangs. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Baloney's Deli (@baloneys_deli) If you reckon the name sounds playful, that's exactly the point. Inspired by the Americanisation of mortadella — a meat banned by the US government during the Italian migration waves of the late 19th and early 20th centuries — 'baloney' became both a regulation-friendly substitute and, in time, slang for 'nonsense'. And McFarlane is actively leaning into the word's double meaning, too: "I am not Italian or American, however I am passionate about Italian and American food so I'm a phoney baloney," he tells Concrete Playground. As for the menu? Expect stacked sandwiches with a personal twist. Each one is named after someone close to McFarlane — like the Spicy Gabita, a tribute to his partner — who, according to McFarlane, is "a little bit spicy" — that sees eggplant, mozzarella, rocket, fermented chilli and balsamic layered on fluffy focaccia. You'll also find other creative combinations like the Alt Tayo, which features lemon-spiked cannellini beans, roast capsicum and vegan basil pesto, alongside the likes of a classic Reuben and, of course, a loaded mortadella, stracciatella and green olive number. If that's not enough to get you road tripping, there's also java juice by Coffee Supreme, artisan deli goods and a rotating selection of sandwich specials. Baloney's also carries the influence of McFarlane's time cutting his proverbial teeth at Mortadeli in Torquay, Victoria, and Byron's much-loved Pixie Food & Wine. Baloney's is another feather in the cap for the burgeoning Byron food scene, which continues to evolve far beyond açai bowls and organic smoothies. Baloney's is located at 10-12 Shirley Street, Byron Bay. It's open Tuesday–Sunday, 8am–2.30pm. For more info, head to the venue's Instagram page.
Get ready for wagyu with a view in West End's West Village, with Ippin Japanese Dining set to join the growing space. When it opens its doors in 2023, the new restaurant will sit inside the precinct's Garden Pavilion, peering down on openair lawn The Common from the second floor — and pairing a menu bursting with Queensland seafood and meat, plus products imported from Japan, with greenery-filled vistas. Mark April in your diaries, Brisbanites, and prepare for company, with Ippin seating 140. It's already badging itself as a hidden gem given that it'll be one level up from West Village's hustle and bustle, but word of great Japanese eats spreads fast in the River City. If you're fond of yakitori grill, toothfish, wagyu beef, tempura cuttlefish and lobster popcorn, prepare to have your tastebuds tempted, too — they'll all be on the menu. If the latter sounds familiar, that's because it's a Sydney favourite thanks to Kenny Lee, the restaurateur and owner of the New South Wales capital's Kuon Omakase, Allta and Funda restaurants, with that dish making the leap to Queensland. Lee has helped whip up Ippin's menu with head chef Tatsuya Miwa, plus owners Helen Lea and Jane Ma, with the culinary lineup also slated to include traditional Japanese seafood starters — and a rotating array of two-to-three desserts made by a specialised pastry chef. Keen on tuna? Ippin will host showcases dedicated to the fish, with Tatsuya chopping up a whole tuna in-venue, then auctioning it off. These will be ticketed, sake-fuelled events, doing their best to make you feel like you're in Japan rather than at a precinct based around Brisbane's old Peters ice-cream factory. Ippin's decor will tie into its both its culinary influence and its setting, however, featuring Japanese touches but working with the timber and brickwork that's prominent around West Village. Drinks-wise, expect sake — naturally — as well as a small lineup of cocktails and spirits, and a list of Australian, French and Italian wines. The new Japanese go-to joins West End's already hefty range of food options, including gelato, burgers, Italian eats, doughnuts, Mediterranean cuisine, Hungarian pastries and Greek eats. Find Ippin Japanese Dining at West End's West Village precinct, 97 Boundary Street, West End, from April 2023 — we'll update you with an exact opening date when one is announced.
Japanese artist Ryosuke Fukusada has created a wooden light bulb using an ancient technique called 'rokuro'. By wrapping an LED light bulb in a thin layer of wood, Fukusada's bulb was launched recently at New York Design Week. The bulb's LED lighting creates only a small amount of heat, meaning it will not catch alight. A recyclable aluminum socket works with the wood to create a sleek, modern and sustainable design, which recently received an award at the Kyoto Design competition. The bulb is currently being developed.
Think of Thailand and you probably think of idyllic beaches, excellent food and lovely, welcoming people. But there's one more thing you can add to that list: trash. Specifically, agricultural and industrial waste. In the country's creative and industrial hubs, a group of environmentally conscious Thai brands are creating practical objects out of discarded materials and embodying the ethos of DEWA and DEWI, or Design from Waste of Agriculture and Industry — a method that uses design and creativity to both repurpose waste and minimise pollution. As the old saying goes: one man's trash is another man's treasure. And in this case, the proverbial trash has been repurposed to create treasure in the form of tableware, carry bags and eco-friendly upholstery. Pineapple by-products, unused medical gloves, car parts and even food scraps are all being transformed into products that are useful, eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing. And as the other old saying goes: waste not, want not. We've teamed up with Thailand's Department of International Trade Promotion to showcase six brands that are solving environmental problems and hitting consumer demand all in one go by turning garbage into gold. THAI NUM CHOKE Thailand has a huge pineapple industry and that mammoth crop leads to a whole lot of pineapple leaves ending up as waste each year. The unwanted leaves are usually discarded via burning, causing an extra kick of waste, too. But it turns out this fibrous material doesn't need to go up in flames. At Thai Num Choke, pineapple leaves are transformed into fibres, yarns and even vegan leather before being reborn as bags, clothing and award-winning fabrics. Blended with industrial materials and hemp barks (another agricultural waste problem), the fabrics make for durable upholstery and beautiful, environmentally responsible leather. Thai Num Choke also uses natural dye sources and is looking at reclaiming other waste products to expand its innovative textile making. LAMUNLAMAI It's no secret that food waste is a big environmental issue. But what if that waste could end up back on the table — think, an egg cup made of eggshells, coffee accoutrements made of coffee grounds and a vase made of carrot pulp. At Lamunlamai, that's exactly what you'll find. Taking waste from individuals, restaurants and industry, Lamunlamai creates artisanal ceramic tablewares, the shapes and subdued natural hues of which are made to echo their source material. Utterly unique and with exquisite attention to detail, each piece is a beautiful work of art for the table which harks back to the company's origins in creating custom pieces and art installations. MUNIE The Delight Collection by Munie has very humble beginnings: weeds and waste. In Thailand, water hyacinths infest city drains and need to be regularly cleared. As it turns out, those tough but elegant masses of weeds can be turned into natural fibres that are light, quick-drying and absorbent. When woven into yarn with cotton scraps, this waste matter becomes a useful and beautiful fabric that can be used to make pillows, slippers, cushions, table-runners, hats and baskets. Munie supports a strong rural economy by investing in local workers, making its fabrics sustainable and socially conscious all the way along the production line. RUBBER IDEA Rubber Idea is a clever concept. In a post-plastic bag era, the 5 billion unused medical gloves that go to waste each year seemed like a golden opportunity to create recycled and reusable carry bags. After all, rubber is waterproof, easy to clean and the latex can be reconstituted and coloured in vibrant hues, giving you a functional and environmentally responsible bag that also provides a solution to a huge waste problem. It's not just bags that Rubber Idea has mastered. It also has a line of pet products including accessories, temperature-adjustable bedding and chewable and snack-dispensing toys. Because why shouldn't your beloved pet live the same environmentally conscious lifestyle as you? CHYWA You probably think about petrol pollution and the fossil fuels that are used to power your car regularly, but what about the environmental impact from the actual car itself? Airbags alone result in tonnes of waste each year across Asia, Europe and the US. But they're a durable material: tough, wrinkle-resistant and made to withstand stress and hard knocks. In other words, ideal for the outdoors. Chywa receives airbags and seatbelts from Thai garages and up-cycles them into outdoor lifestyle products. The range features stylish and functional camping gear including backpacks, folding chairs, shoulder bags and wide-brimmed hats. With tourism being an integral part of Thailand's economy, integrating sustainable practices to improve the ecological footprint of this industry makes complete sense. RENIM PROJECT Producing just one brand-new pair of jeans uses on average 7,600 litres of water and can create up to 60 kilograms of CO2 emissions. And when you think about how many new pairs of jeans are made each year, that's a lot unnecessary usage. With fast fashion being such a big polluter, consumers are wising up and looking for alternatives. The solution? Recycle, reduce and redesign denim via The Renim Project. This Bangkok-based label raises awareness around denim waste through Thai craftsmanship. Using all scrap parts — including zippers, buttons and leather labels — the project reforms waste into stylish new fashion items, such as eye-catching patchwork clothing, bags, accessories and even placemats and table runners. The Renim Project also collaborates on limited-run items that have made their way into LA Fashion Week. Keen to explore more waste-embracing Thai brands? For more information, visit the DITP website, or explore more of Thailand's booming creative scene here.
If you've seen the fourth and fifth seasons of Arrested Development — or actually been to Mexico — you'll know that Cinco de Mayo is a celebration like no other. Think spicy food, energetic dancing, street stalls and more mariachi bands than you can tip your sombrero to. All that comes to the Cinco de Mayo Mexican Festival, which takes over Riverlife on Sunday, May 5. Yep, it's just going to be one of those fast-paced events that will have your eyes darting between bands, dancers, chillis and tacos till you collapse. A bit of history on the day: originally Cinco de Mayo commemorated the Mexican battle of Puebla where Mexico defeated the French. Now, the fifth of May marks a celebration of Mexican culture, cuisine, cocktails and music. That means you've finally got a chance to bust out that dusty sombrero and show off your attempt at salsa. The Cinco de Mayo Mexican Festival will take place on the actual date, running from 12–9pm. Tickets are available for $17.50 including food, or $35 including food and two drinks.
Take one of popular culture's biggest supervillains, throw in one of today's very best actors and add the director of The Hangover trilogy. Only a few years ago, the above sentence might've seemed like a joke. Today, it's the reality we're living in — the reality that sees a standalone Joker movie cackling its way towards cinema screens, starring Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role. Move over Cesar Romero, Jack Nicholson, Heath Ledger and Jared Leto — it's Phoenix's time to don exaggerated clown makeup, wield a killer smile and wreak havoc on Gotham City. The just-released first trailer for Joker promises plenty of all three, as failed standup comedian Arthur Fleck turns to a life of facepaint-wearing crime (and eventually obsessing over Batman, we're guessing). As directed and co-written by Todd Phillips (Old School, Starsky & Hutch, Due Date), Joker also comes with a suitably unhinged vibe, as if Phoenix's You Were Never Really Here character stumbled into Martin Scorsese's The King of Comedy. (Fittingly, the latter film plus Taxi Driver and Raging Bull have been cited as inspirations for the new DC Comics flick, and Scorsese is one of Joker's executive producers.) It also looks certain to help everyone forget that the last take on the famous villain only arrived three years ago, because who wants to remember Leto's green-haired turn in Suicide Squad? Here's hoping Phoenix will follow in the footsteps of Nicholson and Oscar-winner Ledger instead, which looks likely based on the footage so far. And, of course, his excellent body of work in general. Robert De Niro, Atlanta's Zazie Beetz and Brian Tyree Henry, and Marc Maron also feature in Joker, with the film hitting cinemas in October. Check out the first trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t433PEQGErc Joker releases in Australian cinemas on October 3, 2019.
Anyone can pour orange juice and vodka into a glass and call it a screwdriver. But if you're after a cocktail more sophisticated and complicated than that, that's where top-notch bartenders come in. They're the folks who mix up drinks that you definitely don't feel like you can make at home — or know you have (again, see that OJ and vodka combo) — and they're as crucial a part of hitting a bar as the menu, vibe and company. Australia isn't short on fine folks whipping up brilliant beverages; however, if you're after the best of the best, there's now a rundown naming the country's top 100 bartenders. Consider it your next excuse to work through a boozy list, if you already started 2022 sipping the 100 best brews. Created by global bartending competition Diageo World Class, the Top 100 Australian Bartenders for 2022 list spans every state and territory — with New South Wales particularly well-represented, and Victoria and Queensland as well. Here's another way to think of it: you now have a list of bartenders to seek out on your next few holidays. [caption id="attachment_714471" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cantina OK![/caption] Standouts include folks from Sydney favourites such as Maybe Sammy and Cantina OK!, Melbourne's Nick and Nora's and Black Pearl, and Brisbane's The Gresham and Agnes. This is just part one of the contest, though. From here, these 100 bartenders will compete by mixing up impressive, boundary-pushing tipples at their venues, which'll be available for patrons to sip from Monday, May 30–Monday, June 13. Then, a top five will be announced — also on Monday, June 13 — before finals in July. The winner will be deemed the Diageo World Class Australian Bartender of the Year for 2022, and fly the flag for Aussies at the comp's global final, which is happening here for the first time, in Sydney, between Monday, September 12–Friday, September 16. [caption id="attachment_795641" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Gresham, Millie Tang[/caption] Whoever emerges victorious will take over the title from Evan Stroeve from Sydney's no-waste bar Re, 2021's winner. Here's 2022's full top 100 rundown: DIEGO WORLD CLASS TOP 100 AUSTRALIAN BARTENDERS FOR 2022: NEW SOUTH WALES: Alex Gondzioulis, The Rover Behzad Vaziri, The Star Elisa Rodgrigues, Paloma Wine Bar Hunter Gregory, Maybe Sammy Matthew Dale, Re Ryan Bickley, Cantina OK Siôn Roberts, Re Storm Evans, Cantina OK Sanghyun Park, Will's Wen Wang, Maybe Sammy Albert Rust, Eileen's Bar - Four Pillars Andrew McCorquodale, Charlie Parker's Beaux Donelan, Charlie Parker's Ashley Miller, Blue Kahunas Ben Hardy, Bar Planet Brianna Aboud, Ramblin' Rascal Tavern Chloe Natterer, The Lobo Claudio Bedini, Sammy Junior Daniel Hilton, The Lobo Eduardo Conde, NO 92 GPR Dominic Causley-Todd, Dead Ringer Emma Bernardi, Bar Planet Eoin Kenny, Long Chim Hamish Mitchell, Charlie Parker's Harrison Kenney, Bar Planet Helen Yu, The Lobo James Russell, Apollonia Jenna Hemsworth, The Gidley Koby Harris, Dean and Nancy on 22 Krisztian Csigo, Dean and Nancy on 22 Sara Rinaldo, Dean and Nancy on 22 Sarah Proietti, Maybe Sammy Judith Zhu, KittyHawk Kalisha Glover, Apollonia Kat Scibiorski, Long Chim Kate Gale-Re, The Gidley Michal Wowak, The Gidley Kiaran Bryant, Earl's Juke Joint Liam Gavin, Door Knock Marco Rosati, Grain Bar Samuel McWilliams, The Lobo Thomas Opie, Births and Deaths VICTORIA: Aiden Rodriquez, EDV Melbourne Alejandro Archibald, NOMAD Melbourne Kane Smith, Nick and Nora's Melbourne Darren Leaney, Aru Cameron Parish, Gimlet Elisabetta Luppi, LUI Bar Francesca Camilli, Beneath Driver's Lane James Armstrong, The Cloakroom Bar Josephe Kourmouzis, Above Board Julien Wurtlin, LUI Bar Kayla Saito, Black Pearl Nicola Dean, Black Pearl Max Allison, Good Measure Miriam Wahlhütter, LOVER Nick Tesar, Bar Liberty Olivia Devlin, Capitano Tioni Naslund, LUI Bar Taylor Matthews, Frederic Tom McHugh, Hazel Restaurant QUEENSLAND: Dino Francia, Rosella's Bar Jack Connor, Rosella's Bar Aidan Perkins, Agnes Restaurant Daniella Darakis, The Gresham Edward Quartermass, Maker Ellery Low, Maker Jamie Fleming, Alba Bar & Deli Jenny Wang, Sono Japanese Restaurant Joe Steadman, Alba Bar & Deli Kate Bartlett, Cobbler Bar Liam Murphy, Frogs Hollow Saloon Liam Shepherd, Bar Brutus Martin McConnell, Frogs Hollow Saloon Peter Hollands, Frogs Hollow Saloon WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Dyllan Balm, Foxtrot Unicorn Max Guidice, Republic of Fremantle Nicola Herbert, Foxtrot Unicorn Shirley Yeung, Foxtrot Unicorn Samuel Cocks, Bar Rogue SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Al Simmons, Maybe Mae Alfonso Lizana, Maybe Mae Anabel Rowe, Long Story Short Georgia Edmonds, Maybe Mae Grace Rawlins, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Jack Somers, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Talis Heggart, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Michael Keogh, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Lachlan Gunner, Long Story Short Oscar Butler, Maybe Mae TASMANIA: Rachel Mynczywor, Rude Boy Rohan Massie, Rude Boy Hobart Jack Turner, Void Bar at Mona Mateo Ortiz, The Den Salamanca NORTHERN TERRITORY: Anneliese Grazioli, Hanky Panky Lounge Katerina Kosta, Hanky Panky Lounge Matt Zarimis, Smoke and Oak Darwin ACT: Cameron Abercrombie, Zaab Street Food Jack Sandeman, Zaab Street Food Liv Kelly, Bar Rochford For more information about Diego World Class, head to the competition's website. Top image: Maybe Sammy, Paolo Maffietti.
Watching a cursor move around a computer screen doesn't sound very exciting, let alone frightening. There's only so much intrigue to be found in basically watching over someone's shoulder as they flick between YouTube, Skype, Facebook, Spotify, Gmail and iMessage — or is there? It depends what they're up to, of course, and in these always-online times, that could be anything. In Unfriended, the MacBook user in question, high schooler Blaire Lily (Shelley Hennig), is doing quite a few things. First, she's watching shocking footage of her friend, Laura Barns, committing suicide exactly a year earlier, as well as the embarrassing video that drove her to her death. Next, she's cyber flirting with her boyfriend, Mitch (Moses Jacob Storm). Then they're both video chatting with pals Adam (Will Peltz), Jess (Renee Olstead), Ken (Jacob Wysocki) and Val (Courtney Halverson). They're not the only ones taking part in the conversation, as they soon realise. Their Skype call also includes an unknown party, but hanging up on the unpleasant troll isn't as easy as it should be. At the same time, Blaire starts receiving strange Facebook messages from Laura, despite her dearly departed status. Mitch suggests that their virtual gatecrasher is Laura's ghost in the machine, a prediction that seems laughable at first, but less so as the interloper's taunts get increasingly violent — and personal. Yes, this is a supernatural revenge film. Yes, it swaps a handheld camera for a computer screen in the next evolution of the found footage genre. Yes, that means that the entirety of Unfriended unfolds on a laptop, as scared teens are taunted by an unseen foe. Director Levan Gabriadze, writer Nelson Greaves and producer Timur Bekmambetov — the helmer of Wanted and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, as well the most famous name involved with the ultra low-budget production — simply toy with the usual horror narrative in the same way their villain plays with the characters. It's both obvious and ingenious, and it mostly works. Setting the movie within an overlapping cascade of constantly minimised and maximised application windows places the potential victims in an immensely relatable situation — i.e. staring at a computer for hours on end. More than that, it also ramps up the suspense. A couple of bloody set pieces aside, the usual jumps are largely absent, with few scares to be found in pixilated video that keeps the characters' fearful faces on screen as much as possible. However, tension ripples through every typed then deleted message and every mouse move to the wrong place. Blaire and her friends are on the edge of their keyboards, and the audience is inching towards the edge of their seats. Unfriended also offers a critique of online interaction from bullying to shaming, though there's nothing new in its exposé of the awful ways people behave when they think they're anonymous. There's nothing new in the cast's performances as self-absorbed, fighting and terrified teens, either, other than accurately reflecting the right age and behaviour. Innovation doesn't matter here, though; the movie only ever promises a modern update. When it clicks, it clicks. When it doesn't, it's still not enough to make you want to log off.
Australian grime fans have been dealt a disappointing blow: Stromzy has announced he is cancelling his highly anticipated upcoming tour. The UK sensation was set to grace Australian shores later this year on the much-delayed H.I.T.H World Tour alongside a run of festival dates as the headliner for Spilt Milk, but has confirmed in a statement released through the festival that he has pulled out of all of his international tour dates for the remainder of 2022. "It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to inform you guys that due to circumstances beyond my control, I must cancel international commitments for the remainder of the year which includes my Australian and New Zealand tour," said Stormzy. "You guys have waited so patiently and I am so sorry that this has to happen after all these ups and downs. I love you guys and I promise I will be back as soon as I can with a show that's bigger and better than ever." Originally scheduled for 2020 before being pushed back multiple times for pandemic-related reasons, the run of dates was finally supposed to kick off in Perth on Wednesday, November 23, before hitting Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Wellington and Auckland, as well as Ballarat, Canberra and the Gold Coast with Spilt Milk. While losing Stormzy is a huge blow for the festival, Spilt Milk has come through with another exciting international headliner in his place. Highly influential Grammy-nominated indie-pop singer and one of 2022's biggest breakout stars Steve Lacy has been added to the lineup for all three Spilt Milk dates. An original member of the popular funk and soul group The Internet, Lacy has worked with the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Solange and Tyler, the Creator. Following solo success with his debut album Apollo XXI as well as singles like 'Dark Red' which you've almost certainly heard on TikTok, the Californian singer-songwriter has found huge mainstream success this year with the release of his album Gemini Rights and its lead single ' Bad Habits' which currently sits at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US. Alongside his appearances at Spilt Milk, Lacy has also announced a run of headline dates across the east coast of Australia. He'll be popping up at Melbourne's The Forum on Tuesday, November 22, The Tivoli in Brisbane on Tuesday, November 23 and Sydney's Enmore Theatre on Monday, November 28. Due to the lineup change, Spilt Milk will be offering refunds for anyone who requests one via Moshtix before 5pm Thursday, October 4. After that, you can also pop your tickets up for sale on the festival's resale facility. Those that want to head along to catch Lacy alongside previously announced acts like Flume, The Wombats, Spacey Jane, G Flip, Fisher and Peach PRC can access tickets via the Moshtix resale. Tickets for Steve Lacy's solo shows will go on sale via the Frontier Members pre-sale at 9am local time on Tuesday, October 4, before the general public tickets go on sale on Wednesday, October 5. [caption id="attachment_851188" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jordan Munns[/caption] Stormzy has cancelled his run of Australian and New Zealand shows including his appearances at Spilt Milk. Refunds for Spilt Milk are available via Moshtix until 5pm, Thursday, October 4.
Sporting giant Adidas has outdone itself with the adiZero f50 miCoach, a new soccer boot that boasts state-of-the-art technology. According to the manufacturer, the boot will be able to measure 'key performance metrics including speed, average speed (recorded every second), maximum speed (recorded every five seconds), number of sprints, distance, distance at high intensity levels, steps and stride rates.' Judging by this description, these super-intelligent boots are a serious athlete's dream. The information on the boot can then be stored for up to seven hours, and subsequently uploaded via WiFi or USB to other devices. The thoughtful guys at Adidas have then tapped into the social media aspect of the shoe, as your stats can then be shared with your friends on Facebook, or kept as a record for your own training regimes. You can even compare your own stats with professional (Adidas-sponsored, of course) athletes such as Lionel Messi as they upload their figures. With more features than necessary and more intelligence than you ever thought a shoe could possess, you're probably wondering how much it will cost to get your hands on a pair of these bad boys. They're set to drop in November at a price of $330, which isn't too bad considering that you're pretty much lacing up a computer on your feet. However, keep in mind that the $330 price point is in American dollars and you're probably going to have to fork out a lot more when they eventually land Down Under. https://youtube.com/watch?v=LK_paShxGM8 [Via PSFK]
The government's restrictions and regulations for COVID-19 containment are changing at a rapid pace. But there are two words we're all hearing on repeat: stay home. As much as is possible within each person's specific set of circumstances (including their job and requirements around food, exercise and health), every Australian is being encouraged to avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary. We're being told that minimising the time spent outside is vital in getting through this crisis. As a result, many of the services that contribute to the lifestyles of city dwellers have been temporarily suspended, including cultural institutions, cinemas, clubs, pubs and gyms. But we still need to be able to access the essentials: household essentials, booze and, of course, food. Up until now, delivery services have been viewed as merely a convenience or something to facilitate laziness. Now, they're more important than ever. IT'S ONE OF THE SAFEST WAYS TO GET FOOD Supermarkets are still open to purchase food and other household items, but we'd rather avoid them as much as possible right now. The stories of stockpiling — and subsequent product shortages and buying restrictions — paint a pretty dire picture of a simple visit to the shops. Plus, with many of our favourite activities currently on hiatus, we have to find fun where we can. Yep, you may not be able to go to a gallery or play team sports, but you can still shirk your cooking and cleanup duties and let someone else prepare dinner. In the wake of the restrictions on public gatherings, many restaurants and cafes have shifted their operations to takeaway and delivery, so you can eat well in the comfort of your own home. And, to put your mind at ease, it's worth remembering that commercial kitchens are held to extremely rigorous food safety and hygiene practices, and most have upped their cleaning and sanitation procedures as the COVID-19 situation unfolded in Australia. For Domino's, this means daily audit checks and no human contact with the pizzas after they leave the 265-degree ovens. IT'S KEEPING PEOPLE INDOORS Obviously, the increased availability of delivery services means there are fewer people out on the streets, which can only be a good thing right now. But some places have taken it one step further. For example, Domino's has introduced a zero-contact delivery for all delivery orders place through the app or over the phone. The person delivering your meal will leave it on your doorstep and call or text you to confirm it's there — and they'll wait until they can see you've picked it up, too. This is just another simple step, facilitated by technology, to limit person-to-person contact with those outside your household. It also means you don't need to leave your house for too long and miss that live-stream of furry koalas, a theatre show or a gig. IT'S KEEPING PEOPLE EMPLOYED As the restrictions continue in an effort to manage the COVID-19 outbreak, huge job losses are occurring over many sectors, including hospitality. Maintaining (and supporting) delivery services is vital to ensuring this number does not continue to grow. In fact, it could help minimise the issue. Some companies, including Domino's, are currently seeking out temporary workers to keep up with increased demand for delivery services. The company is also supporting other essential workers with its Feeding the Frontline efforts, which delivers pizzas to those working tirelessly to support the community during this time — think healthcare, supermarket, government, education and emergency workers — to keep morale up and more people in jobs. Domino's is now offering zero-contact delivery across Australia. To order, head here.
For the dessert fiends at Gelato Messina, it isn't enough to sit in the chain's brand-new Marrickville headquarters in Sydney and dream up every kind of wild and delicious ice cream flavour that anyone could possibly think of. The Messina crew do that, and often, of course. But they also apply their sweet treat-loving minds to creating next-level limited-edition specials, often taking a beloved dish, adding gelato and then giving it another twist. Here's the latest: Messina's Vovovroom, aka its frosty version of Iced Vovo biscuits, which it has indeed made before. This time around, it's adding mango. Why? The better question is: why not? So, first everyone's favourite childhood biscuit is getting the gelato treatment — again. But because that's already been on Messina's menu, it's now adding in a flavour that most folks love just as much. Wondering what exactly the end result entails? It comes filled with layers of toasted coconut and mango gelato, plus mango salsa and shortbread. Then, it's topped with piped Italian meringue and desiccated coconut. Yes, the end result looks like the bikkies you know and love — but in a mango hue, obviously, and in a scoopable form. Messina's mango Vovovroom gelato tubs can only be ordered online on Monday, April 17 for collection between Friday, April 21–Sunday, April 23 Messina now opens its orders at various times for various places, so you'll want to hop online at 9am for Queensland and Australian Capital Territory stores, 9.15am for Victorian shops, and at either 9.30am, 9.45am or 10am depending on where you are in New South Wales. Gelato Messina's Mango Vovovroom gelato tubs will be available to order on Monday, April 17, for pick up between Friday, April 21–Sunday, April 23 — head to the Messina website for further details.
Cinemas and choc tops go together like movies and superheroes — these days, you can't have one without the other. But if you don't eat animal products, pairing a frosty (and readily available) dessert with your film-going isn't usually on the menu. Until now. Much to the delight of vegan cinephiles, Event Cinemas has launched a new vegan ice cream range. In Sydney and Brisbane, the chain is now slinging two flavours of vegan choc tops from its snack provider Parlour Lane. Instead of dairy, these cones are filled with coconut-based ice cream that's been handmade by Aussie dairy-free producer Over The Moo. There will be two flavours to choose from — chocolate and salted caramel — that are both topped with vegan chocolate. The choc tops are $6.50 for the moment, and are only available at selected sites — so NSW residents should make a movie date with the big screens at Bondi Junction, Glendale, Miranda, George Street, Macquarie and Tuggerah, while Queenslanders should head to Chermside, Pacific Fair, Robina and Kawana. If you're fond of cruelty-free, dairy-free ice cream, you can add these to the growing list of vegan dessert options. Just this year, vegan Magnums, Cornettos and Weis Bars, plus four new dairy-free Ben & Jerry's tubs, hit supermarket and convenience store freezers. Lord of the Fries also added to its vegan lineup, expanding from meat-free burgers, hot dogs and yes, fries, to include a new range of vegan ice cream sandwiches. Now we just need a gluten-free option and all the dietary requirements of cinema-goers will be covered. Parlour Lane's vegan choc tops are now available for $6.50 at Event Cinemas Bondi Junction, Glendale, Miranda, George Street, Macquarie and Tuggerah in New South Wales, and at Chermside, Pacific Fair, Robina and Kawana in Queensland.
Those seeking free WiFi will no longer need to spend hours lurking in their local McDonald's thanks to the development of 4sqwifi, an application that uses Foursquare to locate WiFi spots and give you their passwords. Apostolos Papadopoulos and Giannis Poulakas are the pair behind the app, and state that their vision is be "everywhere and always connected." They also stress that the product is still in its development stage, although a version is currently avaliable for free from the iTunes store. Features in the first version include "venue check-in, Twitter/Facebook sharing, in-app tip section for each venue so people can add WiFi passwords within 4sqwifi, map view and hell knows what more." The app works worldwide, and will be perfect for those who seek some urgent urban bandwidth. [Via TechCrunch]
Imagine that you had become an international superstar playing Harry Potter, then spent more than a decade as the beloved character in one of the biggest movie franchises there is. Once your wizarding time was over, you'd probably want to take on a whole range of weird, wonderful and vastly different projects. Daniel Radcliffe, the only person who fits the above description, certainly seems to be following that path — and his latest action-comedy might just be the wildest entry on his post-Boy Who Lived resume so far. Since the HP films wrapped up back in 2011, Radcliffe has played a man who wakes up with horns protruding from his head in the aptly titled Horns, as well as Victor Frankenstein's apprentice Igor in the terrible movie that's conveniently named Victor Frankenstein. He also transforms into a corpse in Swiss Army Man — a corpse whose farts make it skim across the ocean like a jet ski. And, in the first season of great TV sitcom Miracle Workers, he's an angel trying to save the world from a slacker God (Steve Buscemi). Next, though, Radcliffe is stepping into the shoes of a snarky video game developer — one who is forced into a real-life fight-to-the-death game. His ordeal is also being live-streamed as part of an illegal death-match fight club channel called Skizm. Oh, and he has guns bolted to his hands. That's the premise of Guns Akimbo, which seems to combine elements of Battle Royale, Man of Tai Chi, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and Nerve into one clearly, gleefully over-the-top package. As seen in the movie's just-dropped new trailer, Radcliffe's character, Miles, has to try to survive when he's thrust into the city-wide game — and navigate a world where brutal gladiator-style fights have become mass entertainment. The film also stars Ready or Not's Samara Weaving and Flight of the Conchords' Rhys Darby, with New Zealand filmmaker Jason Lei Howden (Deathgasm) behind the lens. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOFatKD0Vzo&feature=emb_logo Guns Akimbo will start screening around Australia on February 28 at special event screenings.
Tegan and Sara have obviously done their family proud. The identical siblings have sold over a million albums in their career and have shared the stage with some of the world’s biggest musical stars. They have made their mark on the musical landscape thanks to the evolution of their pop sound scapes since their inception in the late '90s. The twins were last here in 2010 for Groovin' The Moo and they enjoyed it so much they came back to do it again. This time, Tegan and Sara are giving their Australian fans a real treat by playing a few dates around the country in their own headline tour. Their seventh album, Heartthrob (follow-up to 2009’s Sainthood) unveils a new set of hits for the duo to perform on the tour alongside lead single, 'Closer', which has garnered over half a million streams and earned the siblings performance spots on American television. Undoubtedly, this album is going to make long time fans very happy, and may even add some newcomers to the growing legion of the devoted. Tegan and Sara play the Tivoli with support from Clubfeet.
For eight weeks this autumn, Hamilton will boast two places to see movies. Only one will get you catching a flick outdoors, under the stars and by the river, however. That cinema: Sunset Cinema, which first popped up at Northshore in 2023 and is returning to get its projector whirring again from late-March through till mid-May in 2024. While sunset doesn't usually follow moonlight, Brisbane's outdoor cinema scene is one place where it does, with Sunset Cinema hitting town a month after Moonlight Cinema wrapped up its latest season. The latter gets a summer run in Roma Street Parkland each year, while the former opts for autumn in Hamilton. It's been a busy period to see a movie beneath the evening sky in general in the River City, with Brissie now home to a permanent year-round openair picture palace over at Brisbane Powerhouse. For Sunset Cinema's 2024 stint in the Queensland capital, films will screen at Dock D, largely from Wednesday–Saturday. The season kicks off on Thursday, March 21 with rom-com Anyone But You, then ends on Sunday, May 11 with Kung Fu Panda 4. In-between, everything from more Sydney Sweeney in Madame Web to twice the Timothée Chalamet thanks to Wonka and Dune: Part Two is on the lineup — and also Barbie, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, Wicked Little Letters and Amy Winehouse biopic Back to Black as well. Filmgoers can also see Kingsman director Matthew Vaughn's latest spy caper Argylle, the Mean Girls musical starring Australian actor Angourie Rice (The Last Thing He Told Me), witness Barbie's Kingsley Ben-Adir transform into a reggae icon in Bob Marley: One Love and catch Eric Bana's second stint as Aaron Falk in Force of Nature: The Dry 2. A number of double features filled with retro classics are on the bill, so the OG Mean Girls will show with Clueless, 10 Things I Hate About You with Romy and Michele's High School Reunion, and the Buffy the Vampire Slayer movie with Jennifer's Body. Or, there's Finding Nemo paired with Toy Story, then The Princess Bride with The Wizard of Oz. BYO picnics are encouraged, but the event is fully licensed, so alcohol can only be purchased onsite. For that, Oxford Landing is providing the wine, Manly Spirits Distillery Co the gin for G&Ts and Mountain Culture Beer Co the brews. Didn't pack enough snacks? There's hot food options, plus plenty of the requisite cinema treats like chips, chocolates, lollies and popcorn. Choose a VIP seat in the sunset lounge, which comes with premium bean lounges and the best view of the screen, and your popcorn will be bottomless, in fact. Sunset Cinema is doing headphones for its audio, so you'll be listening in via bluetooth once the flick kicks off at last light (with gates opening at 5.30pm). And, your movie-loving dog won't miss out, with the picture palace pooch-friendly, but Rover will need to stay on a leash.
If you're in Melbourne or Brisbane and Uluru has always been on your travel bucket list, getting to the world-famous large sandstone formation in Australia's Red Centre just got easier. Back in late 2023, Virgin announced that it was starting direct flights from the two cities to the Northern Territory landmark in June 2024 — and now those routes are taking off, complete with a sale slinging cheap fares to celebrate. People make their way Down Under from around the globe to see Uluru. Last year, it was even named one of the best places in the world to visit by The New York Times. For folks keen to head there from the Victorian capital, flights begin on Thursday, June 6, 2024. And for Queenslanders, you can take the trip from Friday, June 7, 2024. The new direct routes mark Virgin's first-ever legs to Uluru from Melbourne and Brisbane. The airline is flying between Melbourne and Uluru four times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The carrier is zipping between Brisbane and Uluru three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Virgin has partnered with the Northern Territory Government and Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia — which runs Ayers Rock Resort — on the new services to get more people to the middle of the country. And it's aiming to send quite a few more tourists in that direction, with 62,000-plus seats a year on offer thanks to the two new legs. "To see Virgin Australia planes touching down in Uluṟu again is a huge thrill — this is a landmark moment that underscores the boundless appeal of the Red Centre," said Matt Cameron-Smith, CEO of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia. "We're excited to have even more visitors experience the wonders of Uluṟu, along with culturally immersive experiences like Sunrise Journeys and Wintjiri Wiru, through Virgin Australia's extensive network." If you're eager to book ASAP and score a bargain, Virgin's new flight sale is running until 11.59pm AEST on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Fares start at $119 one-way in economy, with dates varying across July–December 2024. For accommodation, Ayers Rock Resort is doing $230-per-night three-night stays as well. [caption id="attachment_905928" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Salty Travellers[/caption] [caption id="attachment_905930" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism NT and Sean Scott[/caption] Virgin's Melbourne–Uluru services commence on Thursday, June 6, 2024, and its Brisbane–Uluru services start on Friday, June 7, 2024. The airline's current sale on flights to Uluru is slinging fares from $119 until 11.59pm AEST on Saturday, June 8, 2024 — head to the Virgin website for more details.
Chances are, you've walked past a Jimmy Rod's Barbershop once or twice. There are ten in Brisbane alone, including this one in Broadway Mall, Westfield Chermside and the original in Oxley, which Jimmy Rod first opened in 2003. It's hard to pinpoint this success to one element. Of course, the stores have that sleek industrial feel, and the barbers know their craft well. But you can't ignore the little details like tasty snacks, complimentary coffee and beer, and a Playstation 4 to play while you wait. It's also pretty affordable for a traditional barbershop with men's cuts starting from $36.50 and beard trims from just $11.50. Meanwhile, cut-throat shaves start at $47.50 and the shop sells a broad range of aftercare products from Uppercut Deluxe, American Crew and Kingbrown Pomade. Hot tip: try to nab a midweek appointment as prices jump up on weekends.
The best thing about film festivals? The surprises. And boy oh boy does the 2017 Russian Resurrection Film Festival have a great one. The touring fest has plenty of ace picks, including a drama set inside the Bolshoi Theatre, aptly called The Bolshoi; Attraction, the first Russian flick about aliens landing in Moscow; and the innovative Tolstoy adaptation that is Anna Karenina: Vronsky's Story. It also has the 1989 action flick Tango & Cash starring none other than Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell. Why is this big hair-loving, US-made buddy cop movie on the bill? Because it was primarily directed by Russian filmmaker Andrei Konchalovsky, who collaborated with the great Andrei Tarkovsky early in his career, and then spent a big chunk of the '80s and '90s working in America. It's the kind of nostalgic selection that is best appreciated with retro fun in mind (and a few beverages in hand). It's not quite so-bad-it's-good, but it is something that has to be seen to be believed. In more serious offerings, Arrhythmia explores the erratic pulse of a complicated marriage, Spacewalkers jumps into the Cold War space race, and the comedic The Kitchen: Final Battle pits chefs against each other. Catch them and more at Event Myer Centre from November 1 to 8.
He's quick, he's nimble and he has what you need to get through lockdown. Jimmy Brings is a booze delivery service that'll bring wine, beer and spirits to your doorstep in an unbeatable 30 minutes or less — from that bottle of champagne for an unexpected iso engagement celebration to a Couch Cuddle Pack of shiraz and Toblerone to spice up iso movie nights. Old-mate Jimmy has been delivering the goods since long before COVID-19, starting out as a late-night service in Sydney in 2011, dropping off extra drinks, snacks and even ciggies for your out-of-hand house parties. Those were the days. Now Jimmy is all grown up, with not only a long-serving history in Sydney but also a suite of drivers in Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast and further afield. He's still peddling alcohol on demand, but things have stepped up a notch and you can now add in a bottle of hand sanitiser, ice and a pack of Jonny Condoms for those wild nights at home. The booze offering is a small-but-mighty range that's taste-tested by the Jimmy Brings team, and wine descriptions will make you smile. Those after organic wines can find low-preservative, punchy wines from Speak No Evil, Il Villagio and Farm Hand. There's also whites, reds and sparkling from Jolly Trotter, Heritage House and Covielle. And if you're stocking up for the long haul, there are wine bundles starting from $49.99 for six — around $8 a bottle. On the spirits and mixers front, you can make things super easy with Cheeky G&Ts, Skinny Soda and Moscow Mule packages that scoop up all the necessary ingredients for you, including soda, ice and limes, so you can add to cart without having to think too much about the logistics. A Dirty Daiquiri starter pack is $49.99 and an Aperol Spritz pack, just $42.99. Your beer, wine and bubbles are delivered cold and, as always, you can order seven days a week until 11.59pm in Sydney, and until 11pm in Brisbane and Melbourne — orders must be placed 30 minutes before closing time. Though they can't leave alcohol unattended, Jimmy Brings drivers are operating low-contact deliveries during COVID-19 times, including leaving bags on the ground and sighting your ID without handling it directly, so everyone's kept safe and happy. Never used Jimmy Brings before? Download the Jimmy Brings app and use the code 'CONCRETE' to get $10 off your first go. That's two packets of Nobby's mixed salted nuts, right there. Lucky you. Check out what Jimmy Brings can offer in your suburb. Offer expires on July 30, 2020.
Sundays can be bittersweet. Do you party, or do you prepare for the week ahead? Answer: go ahead and check out these ten great things to do in Brisbane on a Sunday. They'll put in you in the perfect Monday mindset. A Sunday well spent brings a week of content, it's true. Leftover Sundays at Depo On Sunday nights the crew at Depo serve up a special chef’s menu to make use of the leftover produce from the week. As the menu changes depending on the produce available, the only thing I can tell you is that these ain’t your average leftovers. With mains for $20, desserts for $10 and cocktails for $12, the menu is served until it is sold out, so make like your granny and get in for an early dinner. Find a seat among the taxidermy and the sheepskin rugs, soak up the atmosphere and get down with the chill vibe Depo does oh so well. With a DJ on the decks from 4pm until late, you’ll be begging to stay out past your bedtime. All that is left to say is head on over to Horan Street and experience one of the tastiest Sunday sessions in town for yourselves. 16 Horan Street, West End Eat Street Markets If anyone has experienced the tastiness of Eat Street Markets on a Friday or Saturday night over the past few months, you’ll be pleased to know that the markets have extended their trading hours to now include Sundays. That’s right Brisbane, you can now get your cronut fix three days in a row! With stalls trading 10am to 7pm, Hamilton Wharf is a great place to embrace Brisbane’s balmy spring weather and while away the day indulging in the fantastic food, fashion and atmosphere to boot. Macarthur Avenue, Hamilton Limes Rooftop Bar Limes rooftop is a great spot any day of the week but on Sunday afternoons the dress code relaxes and so should you! Drinks, share plates and live entertainment fill guests with merriment and let you pretend that Monday morning isn’t quite as close as it seems. In some parts of Australia rooftop activities might get put on hold during that season they call ‘winter’ but up here in the Sunshine State we can play outside almost any day of the year. So embrace the sunshine and make Limes a Sunday staple because who doesn’t enjoy a pre-week beverage on a rooftop? 142 Constance Street, Fortitude Valley Kettle and Tin A Sunday at Kettle and Tin epitomises just how Given Terrace keeps on givin’. Behind the picket fence, Kettle and Tin serve up one of the best cheese platters in Brisbane, and on a Sunday afternoon you can enjoy your cheese with a side of live music. Order a cocktail jug or a glass from the fantastic wine list and sample the ever-changing but always scrumptious menu while you watch the sun go down on Brisbane Town. 215 Given Terrace, Paddington Livespark at the Powerhouse While free comedy has moved to Friday nights, the good folks at the Powerhouse have not left your Sunday nights bare, as free live music fills the Turbine Platform every Sunday from 3.30-5.30pm. With two acts playing every week, this is a chance to relish in some of the best indie-pop and rock bands from Brisbane and beyond. And if you’re not ready to go home when the music stops, you’re mighty lucky that the Powerhouse has two fantastic on-site restaurants. Both Bar Alto and Watt Bar and Restaurant deliver excellent food and drinks and an unbeatable riverside vibe. An afternoon at the Powerhouse is one of the best ways to appreciate the cultural, edible and physical gems on offer in the River City. 119 Lamington Street, New Farm Chester Street Bakery and Bar Whether you’re an early riser, a slow starter or a late-night craver, on a Sunday Chester Street can cater to all of your needs. Brunch is served 8am to 3pm, and the bar gives you the option to spike any juice or smoothie (I’ll leave you to make that decision depending on how your Saturday night panned out). An array of cooked, griddled and just baked menu items should satisfy just about any Brisbanite’s appetite, so why not make your next group catch up a boozy Sunday brunch at Chester Street? If your bakery cravings hit you a little later in the day (or night), do not fear, dessert is served all day until late. 32a Chester Street, Newstead Sunday Sessions on the Green at River Quay The River Quay Green at Southbank is one of Brisbane’s best riverside destinations, making it another grand spot to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon. From 2pm you can enjoy great entertainment as you hang out in the lush green grass. If free live music and lawn games doesn’t quite satisfy, then why not mosey on over to Stokehouse and get Stoked on Sundays. From 4pm you can soak up the spectacular city views and sip on a cocktail or two to the sounds of Brisbane’s best DJs. South Brisbane Sixes and Sevens Should you find yourself in need of rehydration after a day of strolling James Street, make your way to At Sixes and Sevens, where “the speak was easy, the food shared, the drink appreciated” — exactly how a Sunday session should be. The menu is designed for sharing and allows you to eat a little or a lot. Beer, cider, wine or spirits — whatever your poison, the bar at Sixes and Sevens has got you covered. Find a cosy nook inside or lounge around in the sun out back, but whatever you do, make sure you try the smokey eggplant, white bean and feta dip. 67 James Street, Fortitude Valley Australian Cinematheque at QAGOMA The Gallery's Australian Cin ematheque at QAGOMA has an extensive film and moving-image collection, and they want to share it with you, Brisbane. Every Sunday there are two free showings at the cinema (1pm and 3pm). From documentaries to dramas, expect a showcase of works of influential filmmakers and artists to add a little bit of eye-opening culture to your weekend. You can check out the calendar for full details of current and upcoming programs. Stanley Place, South Brisbane Ballyhooed BBQ at The Statler and Waldorf Sometimes on a Sunday you just need to sink your teeth into a hearty meal and eat them feelings about the week ahead. But when your mum isn’t around to cook a roast for you, the beautiful people at The Statler & Waldorf are here to help out. Every Sunday from 3pm at the Ballyhooed BBQ, the chef serves up gastronomical delights that are sure to make you feel better. The offerings changes each week, so keep an eye out on their Facebook page for details and put it in your diary. 25 Caxton Street, Petrie Terrace Top image: Limes Hotel Rooftop.
There are sushi trains, and then there are sushi trains. Located on level one of the Wintergarden, Hanaichi Sushi Bar + Dining takes things up a few notches. There's no tiny locomotive here — just top-notch dishes delivered via a conveyor belt, all in a place that feels far removed from your usual quick bite-style eatery. And if you hadn't already guessed, no it doesn't feature the same menu as the other Hanaichi in the food court. In fact, Hanaichi Sushi Bar + Dining boasts something particularly special: all-you-can-eat sushi every night of the week. Stop by from 5pm and expect an unlimited feast that also includes shabu shabu. On the menu: various sushi plates, wagyu beef, pork, wombok, tofu, noodles, fish balls and more, all for $32 per person. If you'd like to up the ante, a $50 version is also available, complete with sashimi, sand crab, oysters and prawns on top of the usual buffet.
Everyone's favourite melancholic hitmaker Post Malone is coming back to Australia later this year. The global superstar was just in the country in January and February supporting Red Hot Chili Peppers, but he must've enjoyed his time Down Under, because he's already announced a run of headline Australian shows as part of his If Y'all Weren't Here I'd Be Crying world tour. Diamond-certified multiple times over, Posty will be hitting Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne throughout November on this run of shows. You can catch him at the Brisbane Showgrounds on Thursday, November 23; The Domain in Sydney on Wednesday, November 29; and Melbourne Showgrounds on Thursday, November 30. He's also swinging past New Zealand beforehand for a show in Auckland on Tuesday, November 21. The fun, however, does not stop there. Live Nation's tour poster for the Australian run of dates includes four other yet-to-be-announced stops: Canberra, Gold Coast, Ballarat and Perth. Interestingly, these locations lineup with where and when the touring festival Spilt Milk usually pops up. The festival is set to drop its lineup this coming Tuesday, July 4 at 8am, so it looks like Malone may be a real possibility to headline this year's edition. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXhTHyIgQ_U This tour is in support of Post Malone's fifth studio album Austin which is set to arrive on Friday, July 28 featuring recent singles 'Mourning' and 'Chemical'. You can expect a career-spanning performance dipping into his most recent album, 2022's Twelve Carat Toothache, and his catalogue of global smashes like 'Congratulations', 'Rockstar', 'Sunflower' and 'Circles'. Check out the poster for Post Malone's Australian tour below — featuring the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane shows, as well as the unannounced Canberra, Gold Coast, Ballarat and Perth dates. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Nation Australia (@livenationaustralia) POST MALONE: IF Y'ALL WEREN'T HERE I'D BE CRYING AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND TOUR DATES Tuesday, November 21 — The Outer Fields at Western Springs, Auckland Thursday, November 23 — Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane Wednesday, November 29 — The Domain, Sydney Thursday, November 30 — Melbourne Showgrounds Post Malone is touring Australia and New Zealand in November 2023. Tickets for Australian shows go on sale online on Monday, July 13 — at 1pm in Brisbane, 12pm in Sydney, and 11am in Melbourne, with pre-sales via Vodafone from Thursday, July 6 and from Live Nation on Tuesday, July 11. For more information, head to the tour website. Tickets for New Zealand shows go on sale online at 12pm on Thursday, July 13, with pre-sales via One NZ on Thursday, July 6 and from Live Nation on Tuesday, July 11. For more information, head to the tour website. Top image: Chrisallmeid
